California
-
Family-Friendly June Lake Hotels and Campsites
June Lake, California is one of those destinations that’s simply breathtaking any time you visit. I love a summer camping trip on the lake, but I’ve also enjoyed plenty of cozy winter nights staying at one of the charming June Lake hotels. Honestly, June Lake is one of those rare destinations where both experiences are equally amazing—just in totally different ways. And if you’ve ever driven along Highway 395 and caught a glimpse of that sparkling alpine water framed by mountains, you already know—June Lake is something special. It’s one of those places that feels both peaceful and adventurous at the same time, making it perfect for a laid-back family…
-
Camping at Leo Carrillo State Park: Beach Meets Mountains
We honestly couldn’t decide what to do for spring break this year. I booked a big summer trip for us, so we didn’t want to do a huge trip. But we wanted to do something. So, we decided to hit up a few different spots along the California coast, and our first stop at Leo Carrillo campground set the bar high for the rest of the trip. If you’re looking for that perfect Southern California camping experience—where you can fall asleep under shady trees and wake up to the sound of crashing waves—Leo Carrillo State Park Campground absolutely delivers. Tucked just off the Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, this spot…
-
Your Guide to Three Rivers, California
When I first saw pictures of Three Rivers California I knew I needed to plan a visit. The picturesque setting with mountains in the distance and the river going right through town, plus the fact that it’s right at the gateway to the Sequoia National Park, really sold me. The amazing scenery and landscapes of Three Rivers make it a truly memorable destination. Three Rivers is a charming little town and can make for a great stopping point on a longer road trip in California. Its location northeast of Sequoia National Park puts you close to key outdoor attractions. But it’s also a beautiful destination offering a perfect balance of…
-
Sequoia National Park Guide: Best Hikes, Things to Do & Travel Tips
If you’re planning a trip to Sequoia National Park, you’re in for a real treat. From towering giant sequoias to scenic hikes and unforgettable viewpoints, this park is packed with incredible things to do for families and outdoor lovers alike. There’s a lot you can see simply by driving or parking and taking a short walk, but there are also some excellent hikes in the park. I’ve put together a list of the Sequoia National Park best hikes & attractions that you won’t want to miss on your visit. In this guide to the best things to do in Sequoia National Park, we’re sharing must-see attractions, the best hikes for…
-
Memorial Day Weekend Getaway Ideas
Memorial Day weekend always feels like the unofficial kickoff to summer. Pools reopen. Amusement parks fire up their roller coasters. Beach towns dust off their boardwalks. And suddenly, everyone is ready to get outside again. Even better, it’s a 3-day weekend, so it’s a great opportunity to travel. And I’ve got a lot of good vacation ideas for Memorial Day weekend. Whether you want thrill rides, mountain air, beach sunsets, or small-town charm, here are some creative and totally doable ideas for the long weekend. Last year, we spent the long weekend in Palm Springs–one of my favorite getaways when I want sunshine and relaxation. I love staying at one…
-
Best Campgrounds in Yosemite Valley
Getting campsites in Yosemite Valley is so difficult, most people are happy with anything they can get. And understandably so because camping in Yosemite Valley is amazing no matter where you stay. You’ll find some of the best campgrounds in Northern California here. But if you want to have a shot at securing a campsite, you need to be totally prepared. That means knowing the best campgrounds in Yosemite so you know which campground you want to book your site at. Let me paint you a picture real quick: It’s 6:50 in the morning on February 15. You log into recreation.gov and you wait until 6:59 staring at a list…
-
My Favorite Waterpark Hotels in Palm Springs
I’ve shared a lot about Palm Springs over the years, and that’s because I love it so much. It’s such an easy weekend destination for those of us in Southern California. And even for people who are traveling from afar, it’s one of the best California cities to visit. Its surrounding desert communities offer more than sun-baked golf courses and mid-century cool — it’s also home to some amazing family resorts. In the past, I’ve covered the best resort pools in Palm Desert, along with the best Palm Springs family-friendly resorts. Now I’m focusing on the best waterpark hotels in Palm Springs, Ca. There aren’t too many hotels in the…
-
CA Best Beaches: The Ultimate Guide to California’s Most Beautiful Shorelines
If there’s one thing California does exceptionally well, it’s beaches. I know I’m biased because I live in California, but I’ve been to a lot of places. And I still appreciate all that the California beaches have to offer. From dramatic cliffs and rugged coves to wide sandy shores perfect for sandcastle-building, the Golden State truly delivers. Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a romantic escape, or just a sun-soaked day trip, this guide to the best beaches in CA will help you find the perfect stretch of sand. As someone who believes beach days are almost always a good idea, I can confidently say: California has a beach for…
-
Explore San Juan Capistrano: A Charming SoCal Getaway
San Juan Capistrano is one of Southern California’s most charming historic towns — a place where heritage streets, blooming gardens, and relaxed coastal vibes come together in a way that feels like hitting the slow-down button. There are so many cute things to do in San Juan Capistrano that are unique to this coastal town. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, tea lover, or just someone who enjoys a picturesque stroll, it’s a place everyone can find something to enjoy. As I’ve mentioned before, I spent a week every summer of my childhood at our timeshare in San Clemente, which isn’t very far from San Juan Capistrano. We’d visit San…
-
Things to Do in San Francisco With Kids
San Francisco is one of the best cities in California, and is definitely worth a trip to visit. And luckily, visiting San Francisco with kids is easy. There are so many fun things that the whole family can enjoy. Whether you’re passing through as a stop on a longer road trip, or you’re spending several days in the city, you’ll want to check out these fun things to do in San Francisco with kids. And, if you’re limited on time, check out this San Francisco one-day itinerary to make the most of your time. Where to Stay in San Francisco There are many different areas in San Francisco that you…
